Walker Kessler signs with Los Angeles Lakers to anchor frontcourt
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 11:47 AM
Last updated Sep 6, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers signed center Walker Kessler to a four-year, $129.5 million contract this summer. Kessler joins the roster as the team undergoes a significant rebuild following the departures of LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Marcus Smart. Teammate Collin Sexton expressed expectations that Kessler will provide an immediate defensive impact through rim protection while contributing expanded offensive abilities, including an improved three-point shot. Kessler will serve as the starting center, supported by Kevon Looney and Sandro Mamukelashvili. The team intends to pair the 7-foot-2 center with Luka Doncic to utilize his agility in the frontcourt. Kessler previously played for the Utah Jazz, where he earned 2023 All-Rookie First Team honors before his participation was limited by injuries last season.
- •Walker Kessler signed a four-year, $129.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.
- •The roster addition follows the departures of LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Marcus Smart.
- •Kevon Looney and Sandro Mamukelashvili will provide depth as backup centers.
- •Collin Sexton noted that Kessler developed his three-point shooting and rim finishing during the offseason.
- 11:47 AMYahoo Sports — Robert Horry Explains Why Walker Kessler Could Be Lakers’ Biggest Difference-Maker This Season
- 11:21 AMYahoo Sports — Walker Kessler Gets Glowing Review From Veteran Lakers Teammate, Warns How 7’2 Center Can Be a Monster For Them
"Walker Kessler is arguably the Los Angeles Lakers‘ biggest signing this summer. The team underwent major changes, and the 7-foot-2 center is one of the answers to the players who departed. The most notable departure is LeBron James, who decided to become a free agent and sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. The team also lost [...]
"The LA Lakers are entering the 2026-27 season with a vastly different look. Their busy offseason included the addition of new pieces, the departure of LeBron James, and the de facto designation of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as the tandem to lead the team into the future.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 6, 2026, 11:47 AMRobert Horry Explains Why Walker Kessler Could Be Lakers’ Biggest Difference-Maker This Season
The LA Lakers are entering the 2026-27 season with a vastly different look. Their busy offseason included the addition of new pieces, the departure of LeBron James, and the de facto designation of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as the tandem to lead the team into the future.
- Yahoo SportsSep 6, 2026, 11:21 AMWalker Kessler Gets Glowing Review From Veteran Lakers Teammate, Warns How 7’2 Center Can Be a Monster For Them
Walker Kessler is arguably the Los Angeles Lakers‘ biggest signing this summer. The team underwent major changes, and the 7-foot-2 center is one of the answers to the players who departed. The most notable departure is LeBron James, who decided to become a free agent and sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. The team also lost [...]
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